From the start, I was open with my son’s parents about wanting the adoption to be open, and while the openness agreement is not legally binding, I knew it needed to be respected for the sake of my son. I was also transparent about wanting to slowly transition from a custodial parent to more of a birth parent role. Therefore, I had frequent contact with my son that lessened over the first two years of placement. I saw him every couple of months until I was comfortable not seeing my son as frequently. My son’s parents also communicated a need with me around the same time that they really needed more space.
28
Sep
2016
Why Open Adoption is Important to Birth Mothers
The question is: why is having an open adoption important to me? Having an open adoption means I stay connected with my child. Just because I made a decision not to parent every day doesn’t mean I don’t want to have a relationship with my child. I also believe that us having a relationship is better for him as well in the long run.
23
Sep
2016
What is Semi-Open Adoption?
So you’ve heard of open adoption and you’ve heard of closed adoption, right? But have you heard of semi-open adoption?
Semi-open adoption is a fairly new idea, only having really taken off in the last couple decades. It refers to those adoptions where contact is exchanged between birth mothers and adoptive families, but identifying information remains private. Ok, that makes sense, but how does it work?
19
Nov
2015
Open v Closed v Semi-Open Adoption [Infographic]
“Open adoption” is a well-known and often-used term when talking about adoption, but what does open adoption really mean? This infographic illustrates openness in adoption on a scale of 1-10, with 1 being fully closed and 10 being fully open.
10
Oct
2013
Open Adoption Communication Research
Open adoptions have many facets, and open adoption relationships themselves come in a wide variety. There’s still much research to be done to understand what sort of relationships and communication styles are most healthy for everyone involved in an open adoption.
Colleen Warner Colaner, an …
6
Sep
2013
Sweet Open Adoption Video
Remember adoptive couple Matthew and Katheryn and birth mother Randi? They each shared their adoption stories with us last year, especially how much they love their daughter Gethey and treasure their open adoption relationship.
This week, they shared a sweet video, which celebrates …
26
Mar
2012
New Report Shows Trend in Open Adoptions
Last week, the Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute released a new study showing a continued trend toward open adoption and growing openness in relationships between birth families and adoptive …
13
Nov
2024
Honoring Birth Parents During National Adoption Month 2024
November is National Adoption Month, a time to celebrate adoption and the love that brought your family together. This month offers a special opportunity to reflect on your unique adoption story.
As you celebrate National Adoption Month 2024, take a moment to recognize the …
13
Nov
2024
9 Ways to Celebrate National Adoption Month With Your Child
National Adoption Month 2024 is a wonderful time to celebrate your family’s unique journey. This special month is dedicated to raising awareness about adoption and honoring each family’s story.
As an adoptive family, you have a powerful opportunity to show your child how cherished they …